MALAYSIA VISA FOR INDIANS

The Indian outbound tourism market is growing faster than ever, with more and more people holidaying abroad. Malaysia, best recognized for its Petronas Twin Towers, remains a highly sought-after destination, thanks to its vibrant culture, natural landscape and modern infrastructure.

The pocket-friendly nation welcomed 1 million+ tourists from our country in 2024, and the trend will likely continue. In spite of ranking among the most desired places to visit, there seems to be a lack of clarity around the Malaysia visa for Indians.

Our blog finds out if Malaysia is one of the visa-free countries for Indians and if Malaysia visa is free for Indians. It explores the Malaysia visa process, Malaysia types of visas, and Malaysia visa requirements for Indian citizens. It also sheds light on Malaysia visa charges while explaining how to apply for a Malaysian visa and how to get a Malaysian tourist visa from India.

Key Takeaways?

• Up to 30 days visa-free entry/stay for Indians.
• Visa-on-arrival is restricted to certain scenarios.
• There are numerous visa types to choose from.
• It is essential to arrange all documents beforehand.
• Reasonable visa charges.
• Streamlined application and reapplication procedures.

 

Is Malaysia Visa-Free for the Indian Population?

Until 31st December 2026, all Indian passport holders travelling to Malaysia for tourism, business, social, or transit purposes are allowed visa-free entry and stay up to 30 days, subject to specific criteria and presenting supporting documents. However, they must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) process.

 What About the On-Arrival Visas for Indians in Malaysia?

VOA or Visa-on-arrival is available for Indians only when they arrive in Malaysia through Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, or Brunei with valid visas from either country. Also, they should come in via listed air, land, and sea route entrances.

 Types of Malaysia Visa

Malaysia issues traditional sticker visas through their embassies or consulates, eVisas via an online portal, and specific tourism-purpose simplified visas, also called 'Electronic Travel Registration and Information' or eNTRI.

Travellers must also fill out an online form, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC), before entering Malaysia.

Prominent Visa Categories	Description
Single-entry/Social Visit/Tourist Visa	Short visits and up to 90 days validity.
Multiple-entry/Business Visa	Government-to-government or business visits and 3-12 months validity.
Transit Visa	Short stays, transiting through Malaysia to other countries, and up to 120 hours validity.
Employment/Work Visa	Work-stays, seeking employment opportunities, valid permit necessary and up to 2 years validity.
Student Visa	Study-purpose long-term stays, the possibility of part-time work and validity for the entire duration of your course.
Dependent Visa	Meant for the dependents or family members of those working in Malaysia and valid up to the duration of the original visa holder's stay.
Permanent Residence Visa	Long-term residency for obtaining Malaysian citizenship.

 

Documents Required

•  A visa application form.
• Cover letter.
• Your recent passport-sized colour photographs with white background.
• Original passport, with a minimum of 6 months validity.
• Old passport copy.
• Travel itinerary.
• Confirmed flight tickets.
• Proof of paid accommodation or hotel details.
• Last 6 months’ bank statements.
• Medical/Vaccination certificates, if applicable.
• Birth certificate for minors under 14.
• Sponsorship/Invitation/Employment letters, if applicable.

 Fees & Charges for the Malaysia Visa Application

The Malaysian visa application and processing fees for Indians could vary depending on the type of visa. It could range from as low as INR 1,600 to as high as INR 10,000. One must verify the updated fee structure at the time of visa application.

 How to Apply for an Online Visa for Malaysia?

Step 1: Visit 'The Immigration Department of Malaysia' official website, create an account, and log in.

Step 2: Thoroughly read all the instructions, terms and conditions.

Step 3: Fill in the application details.

Step 4: Upload necessary documents.

Step 5: Pay the relevant visa fees plus convenience charges.

Step 6: Submit the application form.

Step 7: Note down the reference number for tracking.

Step 8: Wait for your email visa approval notification.

Step 9: Print the approved eVisa on A4 size paper.

* eVisa printout (eVisa Note) is mandatory. Email newdelhi@imi.gov.my for any inquiries.

 How to Track Malaysia Visa Application?

The online Malaysian visa processing time could take 5-12 business days. You may return to the Immigration Department of Malaysia portal, enter your application reference number with passport details, and check the current status.

 Malaysia Visa Rejection & Reapplication Process

The Malaysian High Commission or Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to reject any visa application without providing reasons. Past visa violations, criminal history, lack of adequate financial resources, unclear itinerary, incomplete documentation or an expired passport could result in visa rejections. You may identify the reasons for refusal, seek clarity, address the concerns, and then reapply by submitting a fresh visa application.

Note: The above information is purely indicative in nature and subject to change without any prior notice from the government authorities. One must refer to the Immigration Department of Malaysia and the High Commission of Malaysia, New Delhi portals to learn the most up-to-date developments before taking action.

Malaysia is not included in the group of countries with mandatory travel insurance. Although it is not legally binding for you to have a travel policy on a trip to Malaysia, it is recommended by most experts, and understandably so. A timely purchased and comprehensive travel insurance covers flight cancellations, delays, lost/delayed baggage, theft instances or medical emergencies, and brings much-needed peace of mind.

Reach out to QuickInsure, scan available policies, review pricing structures, and finalize the right insurance for your travel needs.                               

 

The FAQs:

1] What Documents Are Required On Arrival at Malaysian Airport Checkpoints?

Minimum 6-month valid passport, confirmed return flight tickets and hotel booking details. Also, one should have submitted the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online three days before arrival. Indians travelling to Malaysia for up to 30 days for business, tourism, social or transit purposes are allowed a visa waiver. Therefore, you could be asked to present a visa or an eNTRI document only based on your duration and purpose of the stay.

 2] How Long Is My Malaysia eVisa Valid For?

Usually 90 days, with a continuous stay of up to 30 days.

 3] Who Can Apply for an eVisa for Malaysia?

Passport holders from multiple countries looking for up to 30 days of commercial or tourism-related trips. Indian citizens travelling for transit, tourism, social or business reasons do not require visas.

 4] What is the Validity of a Malaysia Visa?

Depending on the type of visa, in most cases, the validity varies from 120 hours to 2 years.

 5] Is Malaysia Visa-on-arrival Available for Indian Citizens?

Yes, provided they only arrive via Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand or Brunei with appropriate visas and through pre-defined land, air and sea entrances.

 6] Can I Apply for a Malaysia Visa Online, or Do I Need to Visit the Embassy?

You can apply online by utilizing the Immigration Department of Malaysia's formal website.

 7] Can I Extend My Malaysia Visa While Staying in the Country?

Generally, barring exceptional situations like accidents or severe illnesses, you are not permitted to extend the Malaysia visa while staying in the country.